Hulshof kicked off his campaign at the Capitol with family and close friends by his side. Some of them told stories of his youth, while others shared why they believe he will be the 55th governor of Missouri. The event happened about an hour before he filed formal papers.

"In a few minutes, I'm going to leave this place, go up the street, and put my name on the ballot to be your next governor," Hulshof said.

Hulshof is one of four Republicans filing for the governor's race. Democrat Jay Nixon filed late this afternoon. Five candidates, including incumbent Peter Kinder filed for lieutenant governor. Four candidates have filed to replace State Treasurer Sarah Steelman, who filed for governor today, and four candidates have also filed for the attorney general's seat.

Candidates are ranked on the ballot in order of filing time, with the first filing candidate at the top.